A packed programme of activities has been lined up for the 35th carnival since it was reinstated, although the origins of the carnival in the town go back to the Middle Ages.

Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee was celebrated in the town in 1887.

Among the attractions lined up for Saturday are a carnival parade, stalls, the Hawkeye Falcon Display Team, the Manic Mutts, a fun fair, bands, Beat the Goalie challenge and Quasar laser gun event.

A children's fancy dress show gets under way at Bewdley Institute at noon, while the colourful carnival parade sets off from Hales Park at 1.30pm for Bewdley Leisure Centre, Stourport Road.

Prior to the weekend, activities, which started on Monday with an open day at the town's fire station, continue tonight with an adults' treasure hunt and quiz at the Cock and Magpie, Severnside North, at 7.30pm.

Tomorrow will see a grand fireworks display beginning at about 10.15pm. The best views will be from opposite Bewdley Rowing Club.

The week's revels wind up on Sunday at 2pm with a pub and club regatta at the rowing club.

Bewdley Carnival Association chairman Muriel Smith said: "I'm really pleased with the way things have been going and we're just praying now for some good weather.

"It will be a really big event, especially with it coinciding with the Queen's Golden Jubilee and we're hoping for a really good turnout. We've got a lot of events lined up.

"The Manic Mutts dog display team, which was a huge success last year, is back, as well as a falcon display and much more."

Further information is available from Mrs Smith on 01299 877667.